Fergie - Emphasis on youth

Sir Alex Ferguson insists Man Utd will always retain an emphasis on producing their own players.

Last Updated: 17/05/11 9:44am

Morrison: Making good progress in United's youth ranks and could soon feature in the first team

Sir Alex Ferguson insists Manchester United will always retain an emphasis on producing their own players after praising the development of the latest batch of youngsters.

United wrapped up a record-breaking 19th top-flight title at the weekend and are now looking to add the FA Youth Cup to this season's roll of honour.

The Red Devils face Sheffield United in the first leg of the final on Tuesday night and the likes of Ryan Tunnicliffe and Ravel Morrison are expected to be involved.

Though Ferguson does not expect the club to be in the same position as almost 20 years ago when the likes of the Neville brothers and David Beckham came through the youth system, he is happy with the current crop.

Privilege

"One of the greatest privileges of being a manager is playing a part in the development of young players, watching them grow in confidence and ability," said Ferguson.

"I've been fortunate to work with many exceptional young players but the class of '92 was unique; their success is a tribute to their talent and this club's belief in the power of youth.

"Over the past decade we've worked on bringing young players into the team from elsewhere. But we still like to produce our own young players and I think there are several in the present youth team who are doing really well.

"The likes of Ryan Tunnicliffe and Ravel Morrison, you see them doing very, very well, so it will always be the case that we put our emphasis on young players coming through.

"It gives you a nucleus to protect the future."

But he added: "I'm convinced no group of players will ever make such an impact on the English game as did the class of '92."